TOP secret papers obtained by The People have sensationally exposed one of Sinn Fein's most senior figures as a British SPY.

It is alleged "Agent J118" colluded with MI6 on undercover operations in which a number of people were killed.

He is also said to be a former member of the IRA Council who met regularly with Irish premier Bertie Ahern and his government.

The secret documents, passed to our Belfast office, include his security code number which he used as identification when liaising with his British handlers.

The agent has been a leading light of Sinn Fein - the main nationalist party in Northern Ireland - for 20 years and is known as a brilliant negotiator. Rumours that a top Sinn Fein man was a spy have been circulating for some time.

But it is only now that the alleged proof of his identity will be known in wider circles.

Last night, a security source told The People: "I cannot stress how senior this man is. This will destroy Sinn Fein."